Rouzer, David RSS Articles

House Passes Water Resources Development Act with NC-07 Priorities Included

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 00:22:53 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, with the support of Congressman David Rouzer (R-NC-07), the House passed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026, following unanimous approval by the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure on July 14. The legislation includes Surf City’s federal beach renourishment project and multiple flood reduction studies for communities across Southeastern North Carolina. The bill now advances to the Senate for consideration.

“WRDA 2026 delivers for Southeast North Carolina, moving critical federal water infrastructure projects forward more efficiently and helping meet the needs of communities across our region,” said Congressman Rouzer. “The House passage brings us another step closer to strengthening our communities and making our homes and businesses more resilient to future natural disasters.”

Across the country, our water infrastructure supports agricultural production, protects homes and businesses from natural disasters, and strengthens ports and waterways. WRDA 2026 authorizes 10 major U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects (including one in Surf City), 131 feasibility studies for locally proposed projects, and provides policy guidance for implementation by the Corps.

WRDA 2026 North Carolina priorities championed by Congressman Rouzer include:

Surf City 50-Year Federal Beach Nourishment Project: Authorizes $292.8 million in federal funding over the 50-year life of the Surf City Coastal Storm Risk Management Project, periodically renourishing the beach and dune system to reduce storm damage and strengthen the long-term resilience of Topsail Island.
Improves Flood Resiliency: Advances three flood risk management studies in Whiteville's Waccamaw River Basin, Fayetteville's Cross Creek Watershed, and the Town of Topsail Beach, allowing the Corps to evaluate solutions to reduce flooding and better protect surrounding communities.
Enhances Water Quality: Supports a water supply and ecosystem restoration feasibility study of the Cape Fear River in Cumberland County to identify new opportunities for regional water supply while removing hazardous substances from the water supply and strengthening the long-term health of the river.
Strengthens White Lake Infrastructure: Authorizes $40 million for water, wastewater, stormwater, and other environmental infrastructure improvements to improve the community's long-term resilience.

The legislation also supports economic growth by improving Corps operations and increasing collaboration with non-federal partners on maintenance dredging projects. To accelerate project delivery at a lower cost, WRDA 2026 requires the Corps to provide regular project updates to Congress, allowing lawmakers and the Corps to identify solutions that keep projects on track. Together, these reforms will help deliver projects faster and support the American economy.

For more information on WRDA 2026, click here.

Click here or the image below to watch Congressman Rouzer's opening remarks during Committee markup.

Rouzer Announces $25.1 Million HUD Grant for Fayetteville’s Murchison Housing Corridor

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 21:00:00 GMT

FAYETTEVILLE, NC - Congressman David Rouzer (NC-07) announced today the City of Fayetteville and the Fayetteville Metropolitan Housing Authority (FMHA) have been awarded a $25,115,578 grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Fiscal Year 2025 Choice Neighborhoods Implementation (CNI) Grant program. The grant will support the transformation of the Murchison Townhouses public housing community into the new mixed-income Murchison Choice Neighborhood.

“This is a major investment in the future of Fayetteville and, most importantly, in the families who call Murchison home,” said Congressman Rouzer. “This funding will help bring new housing, stronger infrastructure, and greater opportunities to one of Fayetteville’s historic neighborhoods. I was proud to support the City of Fayetteville’s application, and I’m pleased to see this significant federal investment become a reality.”

"This Choice award will be a game-changer for the Murchison Road corridor and the families who call it home. For years, our residents have shared their vision for a stronger, safer, more connected neighborhood — today, that vision starts becoming reality,” said Fayetteville Mayor Mitch Colvin. I want to thank Congressman Rouzer, our Murchison Choice team and every resident who showed up to shape this plan, understanding that this work is about more than what we see today — it’s about what we’re building for the next generation. Fayetteville is ready to get to work."

The award will leverage more than $531 million in public and private investment to fund the next phase of the Murchison Choice Transformation Plan, a comprehensive strategy to revitalize one of Fayetteville’s most historic neighborhoods through new housing, infrastructure, and community investment.

Fayetteville’s grant follows sustained advocacy from Congressman Rouzer and the City’s Congressional delegation. Congressman Rouzer advocated for the City’s application with HUD leadership, including through an April 2026 letter to Secretary Scott Turner in support of the project.

The project will replace all 60 units at the 56-year-old Murchison Townhouses public housing community while creating 323 new mixed-income apartments across the Murchison Townhouses and Elliott Properties sites. The project will also expand supportive services for residents and support physical improvements throughout the surrounding neighborhood.

Rouzer Announces 2026 Congressional App Challenge for NC-07 Students

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman David Rouzer (NC-07) is excited to announce the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is now open for submissions. The annual competition is open to all middle and high school students across North Carolina’s Seventh Congressional District to showcase their creativity, coding skills, and innovative ideas.

Students must register online and submit their apps no later than October 26, 2026.

“The Congressional App Challenge gives students a chance to turn big ideas into something tangible,” said Congressman Rouzer. “Every year, I’m inspired by the talent and creativity of our students, and I’m excited to see what this year’s winner creates!”

The Congressional App Challenge gives students an opportunity to design and create their own app for web, PC, tablet, mobile device, robotics, or any other platform of their choice. The winner will have their app featured in the U.S. Capitol, receive an invitation to the #HouseOfCode reception on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., and an opportunity to have their app patented at no cost.

To be eligible, students must be enrolled in middle or high school and either live or attend school in North Carolina’s Seventh Congressional District. Students can use the district lookup tool to confirm their eligibility.

Students may participate individually or as part of a team of up to four students. For team submissions, at least half of the team members must be eligible to participate in the district where the app is submitted.

Complete guidelines and regulations for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge can be found here. For more information, visit Congressman Rouzer’s website.

Latest Update from Rep. Rouzer...

Sun, 16 Aug 2026 20:41:08 GMT

Dear Friend,

During the August district work period, I’ve been traveling throughout the Seventh District meeting with local businesses, industry leaders, and community groups.

Visits during the work period have included meeting with members of my Agriculture and Veterans Advisory Councils, visiting with Wilmington’s WAVE Transit and Oldcastle Infrastructure in Fayetteville. These conversations provide valuable insight into the issues our communities face and help shape the work I do in Washington. I was also able to attend the annual tobacco market opening to celebrate America's first crop. To learn more, keep reading!

If you received this newsletter from a friend, and you would like to continue receiving these updates, you can subscribe here or connect with me on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Supporting North Carolina Agriculture

Agriculture remains North Carolina's top industry, supporting thousands of family farms, businesses, and jobs across our rural communities. From row crops and livestock to forestry and specialty crops, our farmers work tirelessly to provide the food, fiber, and fuel to sustain our nation.

I recently brought together my Agriculture Advisory Council to talk directly with leaders about opportunities and challenges impacting their communities. Our discussion focused on a wide range of issues, including high input costs, labor shortages, trade barriers, regulatory burdens, and the importance of strengthening the farm safety net to ensure producers can continue operating.

I appreciate each of them for taking the time to share their perspectives and expertise. I will continue fighting to ensure North Carolina's farmers and rural communities have the tools and resources they need.

Supporting Those Who Served Our Nation

Marri "Nicki" Fryar, Director of the Fayetteville VA Coastal Health Care System, joined my Veterans Advisory Council to discuss the challenges facing our veteran community and ways we can continue improving access to care and services.

Our veterans have made tremendous sacrifices in defense of our nation, and we owe them our deepest gratitude and the very best care possible. I will continue working with local VA leaders, veterans, and community partners to ensure those who have served our country receive the quality care, support, and respect they have earned.

Keeping Our Communities Connected

WAVE Transit is an innovative microtransit service connecting residents throughout the Wilmington area. I had the chance to see firsthand how its innovative service is expanding access to flexible, on-demand transportation, particularly in areas where traditional fixed-route bus service may not be practical.

Reliable transportation is essential for getting to work, medical appointments, school, and other daily activities. WAVE Transit's dedication to providing safe, reliable, and accessible public transportation helps keep our communities connected.

As Chairman of the Highways and Transit Subcommittee of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, I’m proud of the work the next surface transportation reauthorization bill, the BUILD America 250 Act, does to improve the safety of our regional transportation systems. The bill supports a broad range of transit options, including services like WAVE Transit, helping connect people across our communities.

Building North Carolina's Infrastructure

Strong, reliable infrastructure is the foundation of a strong economy. I recently visited Fayetteville's Oldcastle Infrastructure to learn more about their work building and maintaining the roads and bridges our communities rely on every day.

As North Carolina continues to grow, the infrastructure connecting our communities must keep pace. I appreciated the opportunity to hear from the Oldcastle team about how they are helping meet our state’s growing infrastructure needs. I am proud of the contributions our state and its workforce provide to enhance the infrastructure that keeps America moving.

Celebrating America’s First Crop

I was proud to join many in the agriculture community for this year's Tobacco Market opening this past week. Working on our family farm during the summers when I was growing up showed me firsthand the dedication and grit it takes to grow this crop.

Tobacco has played an important role in shaping North Carolina over many, many years. And during the early years of our country, it was the lifeblood of the colonies. Tobacco grown in the colonies helped finance the American Revolution and sustain the economy. Without it, our country would have never been able to survive.

It’s incredible to see the resilience of our growers, and I appreciate the community coming together to celebrate the important role this crop has played in shaping America over the course of the past 250 years. The values of our farm families are deeply woven into the fabric of our state and continue to define the resiliency of North Carolina agriculture. I look forward to seeing this same spirit of determination carry the state and country into the future.

With my good friend, Commissioner of Agriculture Steve Troxler.

I was glad to join in on the action of an old-school tobacco auction.

Here to Help You

One of the most rewarding parts of my work is the opportunity to assist constituents as they navigate federal agencies and services. So far this year, my office has resolved more than 1,600 cases for constituents, and it’s always great to hear when it makes a difference in someone's life.

If you need help with Social Security, the IRS, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Medicare, passports, or another federal agency, my office may be able to assist in resolving your issue or obtaining the information you need. Please give us a call at (202) 225-2731 or visit my website. We are here to help!

Good News Story

After more than 44 years in the classroom, beloved South Brunswick High School science teacher Gary Cavender is retiring after a long career dedicated to inspiring generations of students. Originally hoping to become a doctor, Cavender instead turned his love of science into a passion for teaching and serving his community.

Mr. Cavender leaves behind a remarkable legacy of mentorship, education, and community service and, of course, plenty of memories of his signature Hawaiian shirts! To read more about Mr. Cavender’s remarkable impact on students in the Brunswick community, read the Wilmington StarNews.

Closing Thoughts...

"Love your neighbor as yourself and your country more than yourself." — Thomas Jefferson

Latest Update from Rep. Rouzer...

Sun, 02 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Dear Friend,

Lately, the House has been focused on several major legislative priorities, including advancing government funding legislation and passing the annual authorization for our nation's defense known as the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).

Also included in this newsletter is a letter I wrote for the ENGAGE Fayetteville Business Journal's summer edition, along with several additional resources I hope you'll find informative. As always, keep reading below to learn more about the work we're doing on your behalf.

If you received this newsletter from a friend, and you would like to continue receiving these updates, you can subscribe here or connect with me on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Providing for our Defense

Our servicemembers deserve our unwavering support. Last week on the House Floor, I was proud to support this year’s NDAA, which advances the Peace Through Strength agenda, providing North Carolina servicemembers with higher pay, housing and benefit improvements for military families, and ensuring our military has the tools they need to meet today's threats.

The Fiscal Year (FY) 27 NDAA rebuilds the Arsenal of Freedom and strengthens the industrial base that underpins American deterrence. It equips our warfighters with the capabilities needed to succeed, supports our military families, and reinforces our commitment to a strong national defense. At a time of growing global threats, this legislation bolsters our military readiness and strengthens our defense communities across North Carolina.

Funding Our Government

Keeping the federal government running while addressing our nation's most pressing priorities remains essential. The House passed a clean Continuing Resolution (CR) through December 4 to do just that. It is now up to the Senate to decide if they will pass this CR or some other version. Regardless, September 30 is the last day of the federal government’s fiscal year, and the Senate must get 60 votes to end debate on a CR, which means it can’t pass without Democrat votes. Long government shutdowns serve the interest of no one, politically or otherwise, so I anticipate some kind of deal will get worked out to keep the federal government operational past September 30.

The CR passed by the House provides stability for essential government operations and ensures critical programs including disaster response, small business lending, and support for low-income families, continue without interruption.

Additionally, and not to be confused with a CR or the annual appropriation bills, we passed another Budget Resolution (our 3rd version), which is the first step toward a reconciliation 3.0 that includes instructions to beef up the military, funding to better support our farm families and American agriculture during the worst farm crisis since the 1980s, and to protect the integrity of our elections (provisions from what is known as the SAVE America Act). The significance of a reconciliation bill: it only requires a majority vote — not the typical 60 votes needed to end debate.

This budget resolution lays the groundwork to replenish critical military stockpiles, meet immediate battlefield requirements, and strengthen our nation's defense readiness. While this budget resolution does not enact these policies on its own, it is the first step toward advancing a package to address these important national priorities. We will see how the Senate decides to handle this budget resolution — if they do anything at all. Under their rules, amendments are open-ended causing a lot of consternation among those in vulnerable seats that would have to take politically charged votes on amendments designed to be used for campaign ads against them.

ICYMI: Celebrating America 250

I was honored to contribute a letter celebrating America 250 to the summer edition of ENGAGE Magazine, published by the Fayetteville Business Journal. In the letter, I discuss the importance of strengthening our region's economy, supporting local businesses, and advancing policies that create opportunities for everyone across southeastern North Carolina.

You can find my letter on page 15 of the magazine. I hope you'll take a moment to read it!

Celebrate the Season at the White House

The White House is now accepting applications for volunteer Christmas decorators and holiday performers for the 2026 Christmas season.

This is a unique opportunity for talented individuals and groups to be part of the White House Christmas celebrations. Elementary, middle, and high school music programs, community arts organizations, and volunteers are encouraged to apply. Applications and additional information are available through the official White House website.

Constituent Services Near You

REGISTER NOW: 2026 Congressional App Challenge

Every year, middle and high school students participate in the Congressional App Challenge. This nationwide competition encourages students to learn to code by creating their own apps, allowing students to showcase their skills in programming and computer science while supporting the next generation of STEM leaders.

The winner will be eligible to have their app showcased in the U.S. Capitol, will be featured on the U.S. House of Representatives website, and invited to attend the #HouseofCode Capitol Hill reception.

Students in North Carolina's 7th Congressional District can register TODAY for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge and start coding their apps now! The competition deadline is October 26, 2026, at 12:00 pm EST. Please use this link to register, and visit my website to learn more.

Navigating the federal government can be frustrating. If you are experiencing difficulties with a federal agency such as the IRS, VA, or Social Security Administration, and unable to visit one of my district offices, please stop by one of the nearby mobile office hours in August and see how my office can assist.

Good News Story

For this week's good news story, I'd like to spotlight Leland Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 12196 for earning the prestigious All-American designation for the fifth consecutive year.

Chartered in 2019, VFW Post 12196 proudly serves veterans, active-duty service members, and military families throughout the Leland and Belville communities. This recognition reflects the dedication, service, and hard work of the post's volunteers and members, who continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served our nation. I am grateful for the commitment of the VFW members in supporting our veterans and military families, and I congratulate them on this well-deserved achievement. Read more about this story in WWAY News.

Closing Thoughts...

Sometimes we stare so long at a door that is closing that we see too late the one that is open.” – Alexander Graham Bell

Sincerely,

Rouzer-Supported Water Resources Development Act of 2026 Passes the House T&I Committee

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 18:45:56 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, with support from Congressman David Rouzer (R-NC-07), the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure approved the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026, advancing key priorities for Southeastern North Carolina, including Surf City’s federal beach renourishment project and multiple flood reduction studies for local communities. The bill unanimously passed the committee and now awaits a vote by the full House.

"The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026 makes critical investments across Southeastern North Carolina, protecting homes and businesses from future natural disasters, and strengthens our maritime economy," said Congressman David Rouzer. "Delivering this bipartisan bill every two years builds on the success of previous WRDAs, making federal projects more timely and efficient in meeting the needs of our communities."

WRDA 2026 North Carolina priorities championed by Congressman Rouzer include:

Surf City 50-Year Federal Beach Nourishment Project: Authorizes $292.8 million in federal funding over the 50-year life of the Surf City Coastal Storm Risk Management Project, periodically renourishing the beach and dune system to reduce storm damage and strengthen the long-term resilience of Topsail Island.
Improves Flood Resiliency: Advances three flood risk management studies in Whiteville's Waccamaw River Basin, Fayetteville's Cross Creek Watershed, and the Town of Topsail Beach, allowing the Corps to evaluate solutions to reduce flooding and better protect surrounding communities.
Enhances Water Quality: Supports a water supply and ecosystem restoration feasibility study of the Cape Fear River in Cumberland County to identify new opportunities for regional water supply while removing hazardous substances from the water supply and strengthening the long-term health of the river.
Strengthens White Lake Infrastructure: Authorizes $40 million for water, wastewater, stormwater, and other environmental infrastructure improvements to improve the community's long-term resilience.

For more information on WRDA 2026, click here.

Click here to watch Congressman Rouzer's opening remarks.

Rouzer Announces Surf City Beach Nourishment Project Moves Toward Construction Following Federal Funding Approval

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 15:59:59 GMT

SURF CITY, NC - Following years of collaboration with the Town of Surf City and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wilmington District, Congressman David Rouzer (NC-07) announced Tuesday Surf City’s federal beach nourishment project will move to construction, clearing a major hurdle nearly two decades in the making.

Approval of the Coastal Storm Risk Management (CSRM) project followed action by the Trump Administration to allow the use of existing federal funding for initial construction. The Town and the Corps will now complete final steps needed to put the project out for bid.

“The Town of Surf City, after years of work, now has the federal approval and funding it needs to strengthen its coastal resilience and better safeguard the community’s homes, businesses and infrastructure from future storms for decades to come," said Congressman Rouzer. "I am proud to have been a part of this effort, and I thank all who have been involved for their great work to make this a reality, including the critical work of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Trump Administration.”

“Today’s announcement marks a major milestone for Surf City and the future of our coastline,” said Mayor Teresa Batts. “The approval to move this project forward reflects years of hard work, collaboration, and a shared commitment among the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and our federal, state, county, and local partners. We’re grateful to everyone who helpedbring us to this point, and we look forward to beginning the construction phase. This project will help protect our shoreline, preserve our beaches, strengthen our community, and ensure Surf City remains a place that residents and visitors can enjoy for generations to come.”

The Surf City CSRM Project is a federal partnership between the Town of Surf City and the Corps designed to reduce the risk of coastal storm damage, protect coastal infrastructure, and strengthen the long-term resilience of Surf City’s shoreline. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approved existing Disaster Relief Act of 2019 funding for initial construction authorization. Future nourishment cycles will be authorized through the upcoming Water Resources Development Act (WRDA).

The project focuses on beach and dune nourishment along Surf City’s approximately six-mile shoreline, including construction of a new dune and an estimated 50-foot-wide beach berm to provide enhanced protection for the community.

This milestone reflects years of sustained effort by Surf City, the Corps, and Congressman Rouzer to move the project forward and deliver lasting benefits for Surf City residents, visitors, businesses, and critical public infrastructure.

Background:

In 2010, the Town of Surf City, along with Topsail Island Shoreline Protection Commission (North Topsail Beach), initiated a feasibility study to evaluate long-term beach restoration efforts. In 2021, North Topsail Beach withdrew from the project, leaving Surf City to advance the effort independently. This change required additional federal review and approvals, resulting in delays.

Mayor Teresa Batts joined then-Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee Chairman Rouzer at a hearing on December 14, 2023, to discuss Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) 2024. Mayor Batts provided testimony on the importance of WRDA in assisting with flood control, inland waterway navigation, and beach nourishment as the town awaited its long-overdue coastal restoration.

In WRDA 2024, Rouzer secured language directing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to expedite completion of the Chief’s Report for the Surf City CSRM Project, which became a key step after North Topsail Beach withdrew from the project.

In July 2025, the Corps finalized the Chief’s Report, marking a major milestone in the Town’s long-standing effort to strengthen its coastline.

In September 2025, Congressman Rouzer requested an update on the project’s approval timeline from Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Adam Telle during a Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee hearing.

In April 2026, Surf City Mayor Batts and Town Manager Kyle Breuer traveled to Washington, DC to meet with the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works and OMB to discuss the project timeline.

Additionally, the recently released WRDA 2026 provides the long-term authorization for the Surf City CSRM Project, including $362.3 million in federal funding for future renourishment. WRDA 2026 also modifies the original Surf City and North Topsail Beach authorization by deauthorizing the North Topsail Beach portion, a necessary step for Surf City’s independent path forward.

Rouzer, Espaillat and Textile Caucus Members Call for Safeguards in Protecting the U.S. Textile Industry

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 21:05:29 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressional Textile Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. David Rouzer (R-NC-07) and Adriano Espaillat (D-NY-13), joined by fourteen Members of Congress, sent a bipartisan letter to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security urging stronger customs enforcement measures to protect the American textile industry from fraudulent trade practices and illegal imports.

The United States is the second largest global exporter of textile products and a leading exporter of fiber and apparel, contributing more than $65 billion annually to our economy. The industry is also a significant source of federal revenue in the form of duties and tariffs. In Fiscal Year 2024, U.S. Customs and Border Protection reported collecting $13.2 billion in textile-related duties, accounting for approximately 17 percent of all duties collected.

Foreign textile producers, particularly in China and Vietnam, are increasingly evading U.S. customs laws and tariff obligations by routing textile products through countries which maintain free trade agreements with the United States. These practices distort fair competition, place American manufacturers at a disadvantage, weaken domestic industry, and deprive the federal government of revenue lawfully owed under U.S. trade laws.

“North Carolina has remained a top textile manufacturer even with foreign actors and organized crime undermining our great industry when they illegally circumvent our customs process. It’s time for that to end. With Secretary Mullin's leadership, enforcement will be strengthened to protect North Carolina’s textile industry by punishing and blacklisting bad actors," said Congressman David Rouzer.

“As a co-chair of the Textile Caucus, we are calling on DHS Secretary Mullin to develop a comprehensive program to safeguard the interests of American textile industry workers from unscrupulous practices that threaten billions of dollars from American taxpayers,” said Rep. Espaillat. “Our priority is ensuring a strong domestic supply and holding bad actors accountable for practices that violate our trade laws and break the rules.”

To combat ongoing efforts to evade U.S. trade laws, the letter urges Secretary Mullin to strengthen enforcement of existing trade laws, improve detection of customs fraud, and take stronger action against repeat customs fraud offenders. Protecting the textile industry also supports domestic cotton growers, textile manufacturers, and the broader agricultural economy.

The full text of the letter can be found here.

Rep. David Rouzer (R-NC-07) has served as co-chair of the Congressional Textile Caucus since 2025. He also has served on the House Committee on Agriculture since coming to Congress in 2015.

Rouzer Recognizes Student Artist as North Carolina's 7th District Art Competition Winner

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 16:08:41 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman David Rouzer (NC-07) welcomed Jazmin Morales, a recent graduate of Heide Trask Senior High School, to the nation’s capital to congratulate her on winning the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for North Carolina’s Seventh District.

Morales’s colored-pencil artwork, “Freedom Feathers,” features an American flag, a North Carolina flag, and a cardinal breaking free surrounded by fireworks. As our nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, Morales’ piece demonstrates powerful symbolism of freedom and patriotism.

"I am proud to recognize Jazmin and her work, which powerfully captures the patriotic spirit while showcasing symbols of our great state," said Congressman David Rouzer. "I wish Jazmin all the best in her future endeavors; her talent will surely take her far."

As part of the recognition, Morales traveled to the nation's capital to see her artwork displayed in the Cannon Tunnel, the pedestrian walkway connecting the U.S. Capitol with the House office buildings. She also had the opportunity to meet fellow Congressional Art Competition winners from across the country and participate in a reception celebrating their achievements. Morales's artwork will remain on display for the next year, where it will be viewed by Members of Congress, congressional staff, and thousands of visitors from around the country.

Congressman Rouzer with Jazmin Morales, North Carolina’s Seventh District Congressional Art Competition Winner.

Jazmin Morales poses beside her artwork, "Freedom Feathers," displayed in the Cannon Tunnel leading to the U.S. Capitol.

Morales’s piece, “Freedom Feathers” can be found below.

Each spring since 1982, Members of the U.S. House of Representatives sponsor an annual nationwide high school art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent across the country. The Congressional Art Competition is open to all high school students (9-12th grade) who reside in North Carolina's Seventh District. The winner was selected by a panel of local judges.

Rouzer, Bipartisan Primary Care Caucus Co-Chairs Introduce Prioritizing Primary Care Act

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 13:40:52 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman David Rouzer (R-NC-07), along with the bipartisan co-chairs of the Congressional Primary Care Caucus, Representatives Joe Courtney (D-CT-02), Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02), and Ami Bera (D-CA-06), introduced H.R. 8765, the Prioritizing Primary Care Act of 2026 to better understand how federal healthcare spending can guide policies to expand primary care access and improve patient outcomes nationwide.

Research consistently shows use of primary care systems are associated with better health outcomes, lower healthcare costs, and improved access to care. Despite these benefits, the United States currently dedicates just five percent of total healthcare spending to primary care. H.R. 8765 requires the federal government to submit reports on primary care spending under federal healthcare programs and establishes a working group on primary care.

“Families across the country, particularly in rural areas like Southeastern North Carolina, continue to face a shortage of primary care providers,” said Congressman Rouzer. “That shortage makes it harder to access the consistent, preventive care needed to improve health outcomes and save lives. This legislation will help us better understand how federal healthcare dollars are being spent and how those investments can more effectively support primary care, improve patient outcomes, and thereby lower healthcare costs for patients and taxpayers.”

"We know that investing in primary care results in better health outcomes for patients and savings on other services. By measuring federal spending on primary care services across federal agencies that provide health care coverage to Americans and standardizing accounting for those services, we can give ourselves the basis of knowledge we need to increase investment in primary care,” said Congressman Joe Courtney.

“Primary care plays a critical role in reducing long-term healthcare costs, preventing chronic illness, and limiting overcrowding in emergency rooms," said Congresswoman Jen Kiggans. "As a geriatric nurse practitioner, I’ve seen firsthand how access to quality primary care can improve outcomes and strengthen communities. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Prioritizing Primary Care Act to ensure federal healthcare dollars are being invested effectively and to improve access to quality care for families across the nation!”

“As a doctor, I know that primary care is the foundation of a healthier, more affordable health care system,” said Congressman Bera. “Investing in primary care helps prevent disease, improve patient outcomes, and lower costs over the long term. This bipartisan bill will help us better understand how federal health care dollars are being spent and identify ways to expand access to care, especially in rural and underserved communities."

The Prioritizing Primary Care Act of 2026:

Requires federal agencies to submit annual reports to Congress detailing the specific percentage of healthcare spending allocated to primary care.
Establishes a federal working group to develop targeted recommendations for expanding the primary care workforce, with a dedicated focus on rural and medically underserved communities.

You can find the full text of the Prioritizing Primary Care Act 2026 here.

The Congressional Primary Care Caucus, originally established in 2015 by Congressman David Rouzer (NC-07) and Joe Courtney (CT-02), works to educate Congress on the importance of a comprehensive, continuous, coordinated, and patient-centered primary care system for communities across the country.